Sony unveils new PlayStation4 console

Sony Corp took the wraps off its next-generation video game console called "PlayStation4" on Wednesday.

Andrew House, president and Group CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment, speaks during the unveiling of the PlayStation 4 launch event.Credit: Reuters

Almost seven years after Playstation 3, Sony announced their next generation home video game console, the Playstation 4 but remained mum on a lot of the details -- including what it looked like and how much it cost. Is this a game changer, so to speak?There will be some major changes in the digital and social gaming sphere, but only time will tell if the PS4 is exactly what the market needs to re-spark interest.One thing is for sure: It will be fast. Sony is hoping to create the fastest-gaming network. This all aided by an 8-core CPU, enhanced PS GPU and 8GB of RAM, which will be on a newly designed console that we haven’t seen yet.Can I stream games?Sony is focusing on digital content. Users can “live stream” games, meaning they can play them while the rest is being downloaded. In addition, your PS4 can learn your likes and dislikes and suggest games that would be appealing to you.You’ll also have all the traditional apps that are available on the PS Network including Netflix, Hulu Plus, Epix and Amazon. What games do I have to look forward to?Some titles that were previewed include “Killzone: Shadow Fall,” an MMO racing game called “Drive Club,” “inFamous Second Son,” a puzzle game by the makers of “Braid” called “The Witness,” and a new Capcom game called “Deep Down,” which will feature a new game engine codenamed Panta Rhei.Blizzard also announced “Diablo III” for PS3 and PS4, and Bungee (the “Halo” creator) is returning back to Sony. They’ve partnered with Activision for a shooter game named “Destiny,” which will be available for PS3 and PS4.

Oh, and Square Enix will be debuting a “Final Fantasy” title at E3 this year. No big deal.Will it still have the classic Playstation controller?Nope! The PS4’s new controller has two notable additions: a touchpad like the PS Vita and a share button, which is explained in the social media features below.So should I switch from Xbox?That depends. There’s no doubt that the PS4 has made strides in the digital world both in speed and realistic gameplay. It’s quite advanced compared to the Xbox 360.However, with Microsoft rumored to launch the next generation Xbox in time for Christmas 2013 as well, it might be worth waiting to make up your mind.Can it play all my old PS3 games?Sorry, PS3 games will not be supported on PS4. But, one upside is you should be able to play your PS4 games both on your TV and Vita screens. Eventually, all PS4 titles will have this capability.

Don’t mourn your PS3 games just yet: Sony hopes that cloud technology will make it possible to play Playstation, PS2 and PS3 hits on your PS4 in the future. They’re starting a cloud service that will be introduced in stages.

What are the social media features?Sony is making a play to combine the multi-user gaming experience with social networking. You’ll be allowed to share screenshots, video clips and watch your friends play live. Friends can comment on your game play and join in on your game from a remote location.When can I get my hands on one?It will launch Holiday 2013.How much will it cost?No price yet!